Monday, September 17, 2007

Tioman Island, Malaysia

Further up Malaysia's eastern coast are the enchanting beaches of Pahang as well as the fabled island of Tioman. Picturesque villages and the serene rhythms of the South China Sea make the Pahang coastline one of the most enchanting locations in all of Malaysia.


For centuries, Pulau Tioman has been regarded as a jewel in the sea. One early Malaysian legend claims Tioman to be a transformed dragon princess. Apparently the beautiful princess stopped enroute to Singapore from China to admire the charms of this spot. So enraptured was she that she decided to discontinue her journey, take the form of an island, and remain there as a place of shelter and comfort to passing travellers. Tioman's beauty, from its towering dual volcanic peak to its soft sands, swaying palms, and vibrant profusion of tropical wildflowers, is such that it lends credence to the tale. One indication of Tioman's enduring ability to inspire fables is that it was chosen as the location for the film version of the musical "South Pacific." It is Bali Hai.

Getting there
The boat ride from Mersing takes about 1 1/2 hours, while from Singapore will be about 4 1/2 hours. Pulau Tioman is also served by Pelangi Air and Berjaya Air.
For more information, visit http://www.tioman.com.my/.

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